Dear young Vincentians,

On the feast of Pier Giorgio Frassati, the patron of the young people of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, it is an honor to address you at a time when the faith and the Vincentian values we defend are more important than ever. Your commitment and the way you live your faith are what change lives and make the world better.

To feel part of our community, which has transformed so many lives for the better for over 190 years, is an exciting shared responsibility. It is a privilege to take up the loving witness of our predecessors, as you are doing. We are one big family, truly one Conference that extends throughout the world.

May you know that the General Council supports you in your initiatives and new projects, which will soon become a reality. We have several international meetings of young people ahead of us. I remember the one in Brazil and next year in Rome, which will surely strengthen and consolidate your bonds of friendship and mission.

May St. Pier Giorgio Frassati [set to be canonized in 2025] be a point of reference today to achieve, like him, a generous heart, a humble spirit, and above all, to bring the love of God to our neighbor.

I am at your disposal for whatever I can do. Let us live together in a fraternal community, this great adventure that is the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.

May the Immaculate Virgin always accompany you and guide you on your way, and may the Holy Spirit enlighten and strengthen you in your Vincentian mission.

Receive a cordial and fraternal embrace from Frederic Ozanam,

Your servant and president,

Juan Manuel B. Gomez
XVII President General
Paris, July 4, 2024.
Source: https://www.ssvpglobal.org/